The Pittsburgh Steelers have been eyeing San Francisco 49ers star wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk throughout the entire offseason. Initially, rumors and reports were buzzing, but they quickly fizzled out. Early on, the possibility of trading for Aiyuk seemed unlikely, as the Steelers would not only have to pay him top receiver money, estimated at around $26-$30 million, but also surrender significant assets to acquire him.
Darren Yamashita / USA TODAY Sports
Brandon Aiyuk looks on before a game with the 49ers.
However, on Monday, trade rumors with the 49ers reignited, sparking excitement among Steelers fans. Reports surfaced that Pittsburgh was nearing a deal to land Aiyuk, leaving fans eagerly anticipating an announcement. Each day seemed like the day the trade might finally happen, but it never materialized.
Then on Friday, the Steelers received disheartening news. NFL insider Jordan Schultz reported that Aiyuk had a meeting with 49ers Head Coach Kyle Shanahan and other key figures within the franchise. According to the report, both Aiyuk and the 49ers now believe they have a strong chance of renegotiating a long-term deal to keep him in San Francisco.
Sources: #49ers star WR Brandon Aiyuk recently had a sit-down meeting with Kyle Shanahan and others in the organization where “some open and candid thoughts were expressed.” The two sides have since restarted negotiations on a long-term deal and there is some optimism that Aiyuk… pic.twitter.com/8HE6DSzFV2
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) August 9, 2024
The news surrounding Aiyuk has been a rollercoaster for Steelers fans, filled with contradictory reports and what feels like a chess match between 49ers General Manager John Lynch and Steelers General Manager Omar Khan. Some reports suggested that Aiyuk was pleased with the Steelers' contract offer, but the 49ers were unhappy with the trade terms.
Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers General Manager Omar Khan picks up the phone in the team's war room during the 2023 NFL Draft weekend.
Aiyuk holds significant leverage in this situation, which has backed the 49ers into a corner. There's even speculation that the 49ers might be leaking outdated information to put pressure on Pittsburgh.
The Steelers' wide receiver room could use a boost, and adding Aiyuk would significantly improve their offensive outlook. Pairing him with the talented George Pickens could create one of the most dynamic wide receiver duos in the NFL. However, the latest report from Schultz is consistent with his earlier claims that no deal has been close.
Steelers Losing Ground In Pursuit Of Brandon Aiyuk
While several Steelers media outlets were confident that a deal for Aiyuk was imminent, Schultz remained steadfast that nothing substantial was happening. His latest report reinforces his previous stance, suggesting that the situation is still fluid and could be another attempt by the 49ers to pressure the Steelers. It also could be the dagger that keeps Pittsburgh from getting Aiyuk.
Associated Press
49ers' Brandon Aiyuk running on the field before a game.
The ongoing Aiyuk saga has started to wear on Steelers fans, but if they can secure the star receiver, it would be worth the headache. The confusing and conflicting reports have been challenging for fans to follow, and now it seems the 49ers are gaining momentum in keeping Aiyuk as part of their long-term plans, according to Schultz.
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